Who Are We?

Who Are We?

Who are the “Daughters of the British Empire”? ( DBE )

We are women from all walks of life who join together in friendship to raise funds for our charities, uniting British and Commonwealth Women for Fellowship and Philanthropy.

For over three quarters of a century, The Daughters of the British Empire in the U.S.A. has been a common bond for women of British heritage living in America. Members, joining together in fellowship, contribute significantly to the good of their local communities and support the four retirement homes for men and women established by the DBE.

The DBE is a charitable, non-profit, non-political, non-sectarian, voluntary American society of women of British or Commonwealth birth, ancestry or marriage. Its members are professionals, businesswomen, and homemakers with common interests and heritage. The group regularly meets for business and social events with the common cause of philanthropy.

Not in Tennessee? Why not visit our National Website to find out more about our Motto “Not ourselves but the cause” and to find connections in your area.

Who can Join?

Membership is extended by invitation to women living in the United States who are of British or British Commonwealth ancestry - either by birth, naturalization or proven ancestry. Women whose spouses are of British or British Commonwealth ancestry by birth or via their parent (s), or grandparent (s) are also eligible. Junior membership is available for eligible girls age 13 to 18 years of age.
If you would like more information on joining the DBE in Tennessee, please email us. To join or inquire about the DBE in other states, please visit the National DBE Website .

Our Mission

The Mission of the DBE, in keeping with the Organization’s objectives, is to bring together, in friendship, women of British and British Commonwealth birth or ancestry for charitable, cultural and educational purposes.The Daughters of the British Empire in the United States of America (“DBE”) welcomes all women residing in the USA who are of British or British Commonwealth birth or ancestry or whose partners are British or from the British Commonwealth.

Who We Are

Founded in 1908, the DBE is a non-profit, philanthropic organization, the main beneficiaries of which are our four retirement homes for people of all nationalities Our membership is comprised of a diverse group of ladies from many different backgrounds but with a common heritage and common philanthropic cause. It is the source of close and long-term friendships.

How to Join?

The DBE welcomes all women residing in the USA who are of British or British Commonwealth birth or ancestry or whose partners are British or from the British Commonwealth. Contact our District Organizer who can help you to find the Chapter closest to you. For Anglophiles who do not qualify for full membership we offer a “Friends of the DBE” membership

Our District Homes

Our three retirement communities, for people of all nationalities, are based in Illinois, Texas and, California. Each Home has its own characteristics but all are beautifully furnished, often with personal belongings of the residents. The public rooms are attractive and comfortable with a cheerful atmosphere.